The Kogis inhabit the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, the world's largest coastal mountain range, located in northern Colombia. They are descendants of the Tayronas, an ancient people who flourished in this region before the Spanish conquest. They live in complete autonomy within the mountains of the massif. By visiting one of their villages, you will discover their exceptional way of life, their culture, their traditions, their stories and their customs. An experience not to be missed during your journey through this part of the country.

A Few Words About the Kogis

The Kogis are not the only indigenous people living in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. The Arhuacos, Wiwas and Kankuamos also live there.

These indigenous people often dress in white, a color that evokes the purity of nature to them. Men always carry a mochilla (a type of bag) crafted by women from sisal fabric or fique fiber.

Among the Kogis, the entire family participates in daily tasks. Men are responsible for cutting wood while women weave mochillas. The task of fetching water is entrusted to the young.

The most respected person in a Kogi village is the Mamo, a spiritual leader. Inhabitants believe he maintains the order of the world. He plays an important role in the life of the community. Furthermore, he is the teacher and healer of the village. The Mamo is chosen at birth and his training begins at a very young age.

The Kogis and Nature

The Kogis are above all skilled farmers. They cultivate yuccas, beans, corn, arracachas, malangas (tubers), coca… in the warmer parts of the Sierra Nevada. Onions, lettuces, cabbages, blueberries, tamarillos…are grown in the higher parts of the massif. These fields are maintained regularly so that the jungle does not invade them. Note that they never practice intensive farming. In perfect harmony with nature, they have great respect for it and everything it offers them. For them, the massif is the center of the world, but also Mother Earth, a living being with a head (the peaks), veins (the rivers) and messengers (the People who inhabit it).

Coca or "ayo" holds an important place in Kogi culture. Only women are allowed to harvest the leaves of this plant. Men carry it in their bags and consume it to connect with "Aluna" (the thought, soul or energy). They exchange a handful of leaves of this plant when they meet.

Visiting a Kogi Village

The Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta is home to many Kogi villages.

With your local travel agency, you will be able to discover villages close to towns or rather remote ones including two to three days of trekking through pristine nature. You will discover the many facets of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta and enjoy its waterfalls and rivers.

Once you arrive in a Kogi village, you will be able to meet its Mamo and talk with him in the center of the village for a cultural exchange. Some Kogis allow tourists to witness some rituals or invite them to meditate with them about peace and the healing of the earth. They can also offer you blessed objects, such as necklaces.

During your stay in the village, the community will share their stories and myths with you. Your encounter with them will help you understand their perspective on nature and the way they see the world. You will discover their fields and their farming practices. In some villages, you can witness the making of panela, a sugar extracted from sugar cane.

Visiting a Kogi community is also an opportunity to taste coca leaves, to see women weaving mochillas, to meet their children, and more. As evening falls, you will dine with them and spend the night in a traditional hut.

A unique experience full of human discoveries that you absolutely must have during your trip to Colombia.